National Advance Care Planning Week 2025

Are you ready to take control of your future healthcare decisions? Mark your calendars for National Advance Care Planning Week, running from 17-23 March 2025. This vital initiative encourages Australians to think about and discuss their healthcare preferences for the future.

What is Advance Care Planning?

Advance care planning involves making decisions about your future health care in case you become too unwell to speak for yourself. It’s about ensuring your values, beliefs, and preferences are known and respected.

Why is it Important?

1. Peace of Mind: Knowing your wishes are documented can provide comfort to you and your loved ones.

2. Reduced Stress: Clear instructions can alleviate the burden on family members during difficult times.

3. Better Care: Healthcare providers can make informed decisions aligned with your preferences.

4. Autonomy: You maintain control over your care, even when you can’t communicate.

Key Events During the Week

1. Community Webinar (19 March 2025): Join Dr Catherine Joyce and Judith Leeson AM for personal insights into advance care planning.

2. Health Professionals Webinar (17 March 2025): Dr Greg Parker and Dr Craig Sinclair will discuss contemporary advance care planning practices.

3. Local Events: Check your area for information sessions and community gatherings.

Getting Started with Advance Care Planning

1. Reflect on Your Values: Think about what matters most to you in terms of quality of life and medical care.

2. Discuss with Loved Ones: Open conversations with family and friends about your wishes.

3. Talk to Your Doctor: Discuss your health and potential future scenarios.

4. Document Your Wishes: Create an Advance Care Directive to formally record your preferences.

5. Review Regularly: Update your plan as your health or circumstances change.

Support Available

The National Advance Care Planning Advisory Service offers free advice. Call 1300 208 582 (9am-5pm AEST/AEDT, Monday to Friday) or Luxe Care Regional Manager Samantha Gooch RN call 1300 674 886.

For personalised support, consider reaching out to a care manager from Luxe Care. They can guide you through the process and ensure your care aligns with your preferences.

Common Misconceptions

1. “It’s only for the elderly or sick”: Advance care planning is for adults of all ages and health statuses.

2. “It’s set in stone”: You can update your plan anytime.

3. “It’s too complicated”: With the right support, the process can be straightforward.

Real-Life Impact

Consider Sarah’s story: At 45, she never thought about advance care planning until her mother’s sudden illness. The family struggled with difficult decisions without knowing her mother’s wishes. This experience prompted Sarah to create her own advance care plan, bringing peace of mind to her and her family.

Taking Action

1. Register for a webinar during National Advance Care Planning Week.

2. Download resources from the Advance Care Planning Australia website.

3. Schedule a discussion with your GP.

4. Reach out for personalised guidance; Luxe Care Regional Manager Samantha Gooch RN call 1300 674 886.

5. Start conversations with your loved ones about your care preferences.

Remember, advance care planning is an act of self-care and love for your family. It ensures your voice is heard, even when you can’t speak for yourself.

As we approach National Advance Care Planning Week 2025, take this opportunity to reflect on your values and start important conversations. Your future self and loved ones will thank you for your foresight and care.

Don’t wait for a crisis to consider your future care. Use this week as a catalyst to take control of your healthcare journey. Your voice matters—

make sure it’s heard.